Table of Contents
Registration Information
Course Registration Information ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 2
Registration Dates ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 2
Registration Details ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2
Fees ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 3
Single Gender Options ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3
Attendance Policy ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3
Promotion Policy and Grade Classification ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3
South Carolina Act 155 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 4
South Carolina End of Course Examination Program --------------------------------------------------------------- 4
South Carolina High School Diploma Requirements ---------------------------------------------------------------- 4
Graduation Participation ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4
South Carolina Uniform Grading Policy ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4
Course Levels ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 5
South Carolina Uniform Grading Scale ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6
Withdrawing from a Course ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 7
Retaking a Course ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 7
Converting Grades on a Transcript -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7
AVENTA: Credit Recovery Program ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7
Virtual School Programs ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7
College Admission Guidelines -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8
College Preparatory Course of Study ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8
Student Athletes and NCAA Division I and Division II Eligibility --------------------------------------------------- 9
Career Clusters of Study -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 10
D5 Career Academies, Clusters, and Majors------------------------------------------------------------------------- 11
Course Descriptions
English ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 12
Mathematics ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 13
Science ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14
Social Studies ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 15
Modern Languages --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 16
Physical Education ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 17
JROTC – Aerospace Science (Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps) ------------------------- 17
Career and Technology Education ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 19
Business Education -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 19
Technology Education ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 20
Fine Arts ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 21
Band --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 21
Orchestra --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 22
Theatre ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 22
Art ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 22
Chorus ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 23
Additional Electives ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 24
Creative Writing ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 24
Leadership BFA ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 24
Freshman Focus ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 24
Journalism 1 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 24
Personal Health and Wellness ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 24
Rebel Book Club ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 24
Broadcast Journalism ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 25
ESOL -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 25
Study Skills ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 26
RATE (Rebels Achieving Through Effort) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 26
Spartanburg Community College---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------27
USC Upstate-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------27
R. D. Anderson--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------28
Course Directory Worksheet---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------32
Questions for my Counselor & Notes ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------33
James F. Byrnes Freshman Academy
Course Directory 2015-2016
Mission Statement
The mission of the James F. Byrnes Freshman Academy is to provide the fundamental steps
for successful transition into high school and encourage life-long learning by maximizing
student potential through a variety of educational and social opportunities to meet the needs
of all students presented in a culturally positive, emotionally safe, and physically secure
environment.
General Information
The administration reserves the right to change any information in this directory if it is deemed in the best interest of the school and our students.
Registration Dates: Please refer to the Byrnes Freshman Academy web page and
school marquee for updates.
www.spart5.net/jbfa/
May 15, 2015…………………………...Last day to change course requests for 2015-2016
August 4, 2015. ................................ Registration and Schedule Pick-up


Students, parents, teachers, and guidance counselors work together to make course selections at the
Byrnes Freshman Academy. Each student and his/her parent(s) will have an appointment time to
meet with a guidance counselor to discuss course selections for the 2015-2016 school year. In
selecting courses, students should always refer to their Individual Graduation Plan (IGP) which should
both challenge and assist students to grow personally and academically. Keep in mind the courses
selected will determine how thoroughly prepared students are for entrance into the college or the career
of their choice. Choose courses wisely! Students who fail to register during the scheduled registration
time will be assigned courses by a guidance counselor.
Every attempt will be made to schedule all course requests. Course availability each school year is
based on courses requested on student registration cards. For this reason, it is very difficult and often
impossible to change a student’s schedule after established deadlines. To avoid any problems with
schedule changes, we encourage you to discuss course selections with your child in advance. It may
not be possible to fulfill certain course requests when there is insufficient enrollment in the course
requested. Please select two alternates on your course registration card to be used in the event
your first choice courses are unavailable. Additionally, if you sign up to take courses at R. D.
Anderson select two alternate courses that are offered there. Students should choose their
alternate courses carefully, because they are considered part of the student’s final course selection.
Courses required for graduation will be given first priority. Students and/or parents will not be allowed
to choose teachers, class periods, or semesters.
2

If a student and his/her parent(s) desire a course or course level other than that recommended by the
teacher, a course level change form must be completed during a meeting with a guidance counselor.
To schedule an appointment with a guidance counselor for a level change, please call (864) 949-2320.
Course Request Changes: Parents and students will receive a form verifying their course requests following
the completion of the registration process. These verification forms allow students to review their requests and
make appropriate changes. No course request changes will be made after the published deadline (May 15,
2015) except under the following circumstances:
 A student is scheduled for a class for which prerequisites have not been met.

A student is scheduled for a class for which credit has already been granted.

A student failed a course under a particular teacher and is scheduled for the same teacher and
same course again (if such a change is possible).

A student is scheduled in a course that was passed during summer school.
The school will make every effort to ensure that students are placed in the correct courses in the event of
failure, credit denial, or summer school. It is the student’s responsibility to contact his/her guidance counselor
to verify that a change has been made.
If a schedule needs to be balanced, students should make the request before leaving on the day schedules
are picked up. Requests to balance schedules will depend on the ability to do so within the master schedule
and may not be accommodated once school begins.
Minimum Course Load: Students are required to take at least eight (8) units of credit.
Fees: Fees for courses must be paid when or before schedules are picked up during summer registration,
August 4, 2015. Failure to pay will result in the student being rescheduled into an alternate course.
*Single Gender Option
Students taking these courses have the option of requesting to take the class with students of the same gender
only or in a traditional mixed gender setting. The student and their parents should choose the setting that will
promote the highest level of academic success. Scheduling issues may cause a student that requests a single
gender class to be scheduled into a traditional mixed class section. The single gender classes will be limited to
25 males and 25 females. The single gender option courses are Algebra 1, *Foundations (and Structure)
in Algebra I, English 1, World Geography, Physical Science, and Physical Education. However, single
gender physical education classes will not be limited to 25 students.
Attendance Policy
In order to receive high school credit, students cannot exceed the state limit of 5 absences (per class)
per semester classified as Type II or Type III (see student handbook).
Note: Attendance is taken in each class.
It is possible to lose credit for a single course due to missing more than 5 days in a specific class
period.
Promotion Policy and Grade Classification
Students are required to meet the following requirements to be promoted to the next grade level:
Grade 10/Sophomore:
Grade 11/Junior:
Grade 12/Senior:
5 units including 1 English and 1 math
11 units including 2 English, 2 math, 1 science, and 1 social studies
4th year high school student, 16 units, and enrolled in all courses required to
graduate
3
South Carolina Act 155
Act 155 passed by the General Assembly and signed into law on 4/14/14, states in part “Beginning with the
graduating class of 2015, students are no longer required to meet the exit examination requirements… to earn
a South Carolina high school diploma.” Additionally, the law states in school years 2014-2015, 2015-2016, and
2016-2017, the department must administer a college readiness assessment and WorkKeys assessment to all
students in grade eleven.
South Carolina End of Course Examination Program
All students must take the South Carolina End of Course Examinations (EOCs) in identified gateway or
benchmark courses. These exams, which count 20% of the student’s final grade in each course, are currently
given in: English 1, Algebra 1, Math Tech 2, US History (all levels), Applied Biology 2, and Biology (all
levels). More information on the EOCEP can be found online at: http://ed.sc.gov/agency/programsservices/41/
South Carolina High School Diploma Requirements
Each student must earn a total of 24 prescribed units of credit. The current requirements are listed below:
Subjects:
English/Language Arts
Mathematics
Science,
one of which must be Applied Bio 2, Bio 1, or Bio 1 H
US History & Constitution
Economics
US Government
Other Social Studies
Physical Education 1* or Junior ROTC 1*
Computer Science ^
Foreign Language or
Career and Technology Education
Core Units
Electives
Total Units
Requirements:
4 units
4 units
3 units
1 unit
½ unit
½ unit
1 unit
1 unit
1 unit
1 unit
17 units
7 units
24 units
*Only level 1 of Physical Education (PE 1) and level 1 of JROTC meet the SC High School Diploma requirement.
^The one required unit of Computer Science may be met by successful completion of one of the state approved Computer Science courses.
Graduation Participation
To participate in graduation, students must have earned 24 units, including all courses required for a South
Carolina high school diploma—or fulfilled the requirements of a local, occupational credential. (RATE).
S C Uniform Grading Policy and the Uniform Grading Scale
Class Rank
The uniform grading scale and the system for calculating GPAs and class rank will apply to all courses carrying
Carnegie units, including units earned at the middle or junior high school level. The formula listed below will
used to calculate each student’s GPA, which can then be used to rank students from highest to lowest rank in
class. Computations will not be rounded to a higher number. All diploma candidates are included in the
ranking.
GPA = sum of (quality points X units attempted)
sum of units attempted
4
Course Levels
Core: These courses are based on SC state standards and are designed to fulfill the requirements to earn a SC
high school diploma. Courses in mathematics and science are offered at both the college prep and applied level.
These courses are weighted at the college prep level according to the SC Unified Grading Scale for purposes of
GPA and class rank.
Honors: These courses, which extend and deepen the opportunities provided by courses at the high school level,
are designed for students exhibiting superior abilities in the particular content area. The honors curriculum places
emphasis on critical and analytical thinking, rational decision making, and inductive and deductive reasoning.
Courses within the Honors curriculum are intended to be preparation for AP courses. These courses are weighted
at the college prep level according to the SC Unified Grading Scale for purposes of GPA and class rank.
Dual Credit *: Dual credit courses—whether they are taken at the school where the student is enrolled or at a
postsecondary institution—are courses for which the student has been granted permission by his or her home
school to earn both Carnegie units and college credit for particular courses. For example, through formal
agreements, students who attend Byrnes High School are able to complete courses for both high school and college
credit. Students (1) must meet the admission requirements, and (2) are required to pay all required fees and/or
purchase all textbooks and materials to be used in dual credit courses. These courses are weighted at the DUAL
CREDIT level according to the SC Uniform Grading Scale for purposes of GPA and class rank.
Advanced Placement (AP): These courses are designed to be academically challenging and are taught on the
college level. AP classes follow the curriculum provided by the CollegeBoard. Students enrolled in an AP course
are required to take the CollegeBoard exam in May. These courses are weighted at the AP level according to the
SC Uniform Grading Scale for purposes of GPA and class rank.
*This level of course is not offered at the Freshman Academy. Students who plan to take courses at this level need to
choose wisely in the 9th grade to be prepared for them in the 11th – 12th grades.
5
South Carolina Uniform Grading Scale*
Numerical
Average
Letter
Grade
College Prep
Honors
Dual Credit /
AP
100
99
98
97
96
95
94
93
92
91
90
89
88
87
86
85
84
83
82
81
80
79
78
77
76
75
74
73
72
71
70
69
68
67
66
65
64
63
62
0–61
61
61
--
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
B
B
B
B
B
B
B
B
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
D
D
D
D
D
D
D
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
FA
WF
WP
4.875
4.750
4.625
4.500
4.375
4.250
4.125
4.000
3.875
3.750
3.625
3.500
3.375
3.250
3.125
3.000
2.875
2.750
2.625
2.500
2.375
2.250
2.125
2.000
1.875
1.750
1.625
1.500
1.375
1.250
1.125
1.000
0.875
0.750
0.625
0.500
0.375
0.250
0.125
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
5.375
5.250
5.125
5.000
4.875
4.750
4.625
4.500
4.375
4.250
4.125
4.000
3.875
3.750
3.625
3.500
3.375
3.250
3.125
3.000
2.875
2.750
2.625
2.500
2.375
2.250
2.125
2.000
1.875
1.750
1.625
1.500
1.375
1.250
1.125
1.000
0.875
0.750
0.625
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
5.875
5.750
5.625
5.500
5.375
5.250
5.125
5.000
4.875
4.750
4.625
4.500
4.375
4.250
4.125
4.000
3.875
3.750
3.625
3.500
3.375
3.250
3.125
3.000
2.875
2.750
2.625
2.500
2.375
2.250
2.125
2.000
1.875
1.750
1.625
1.500
1.375
1.250
1.125
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.000
* The SC Uniform Grading Policy (UGP) was revised by the South Carolina State Board of Education for implementation in the 2007-2008 school year.
The UGP determines the grading scale and system for calculating GPA and class rank and applies to all unit awarding courses including units earned
at the middle/junior high school level.
6
Withdrawing from a Course
Per SC Uniform Grading Policy, with the first day of enrollment in the course as the baseline, students who
withdraw from a course within three days in a 45-day course, five days in a 90-day course, or ten days in a
180-day course will do so without penalty. Students who withdraw from a course after the specified time of
three days in a 45-day course, five days in a 90-day course, or ten days in a 180-day course shall be assigned
a WF, and the F (as a 61) will be calculated in the student’s overall grade point average.
Retaking Courses
Per SC Uniform Grading Policy, students in grades nine through twelve may retake a course at the same level
of difficulty if they have earned a D or an F in that course. Students may retake the same course at the same
difficulty level under the following conditions:

A student who has taken a course for a Carnegie unit prior to his or her ninth grade year may
retake that course regardless of the grade he or she has earned. In such a case, only the retake
grade will be used in figuring the student’s GPA, and only the retake attempt will show on the
transcript. This rule will apply whether the retake grade is higher or lower than the grade the
student previously earned.

Students in grades nine through twelve may retake a course at the same level of difficulty if they have
earned a D or an F in that course. The student’s record will reflect all courses he or she has taken and
the grades he or she has earned.

The student may retake the course either during the current school year or during the next school year,
but no later than that second year. In addition, the student must retake the course before he or she has
enrolled in the next sequential course (unless the student is granted approval by school administration
to do so).
Converting Grades on Transcripts
Per SC Uniform Grading Policy, when transcripts are received from accredited out-of-state schools (or in state
from accredited sources other than the public schools) and numerical averages are provided, those averages
must be used in transferring the grades to the student’s record. If letter grades with no numerical averages are
provided, this conversion will apply: A = 96, B = 88, C = 80, D = 73, F = 61. If the transcript indicates that the
student has earned a passing grade in any course in which he or she had a numerical average lower than 70,
that average will be converted to a 73 numerical grade on the new scale.
AVENTA: Virtual Credit Recovery Program
At Byrnes Freshman Academy, students may take credit recovery courses in the core content areas through
AVENTA computer-based instruction.
Students may be eligible to enroll in credit recovery courses if they have failed the course with a grade of 61 or
higher. Students must also take the SC end-of-course (EOC) exam, if the course requires it. Students will be
allowed to take the EOC exam only once, at the end of the regular course duration and not at the end of an
extended period granted through the credit recovery option. The student is not required to pass the EOC exam
in order to be eligible for credit recovery. Students who repeat the course must be treated as though they are
taking the course for the first time, and all requirements will apply.
South Carolina Virtual School Program
Spartanburg County Virtual School Program
At Byrnes High School students may enroll in virtual courses through VirtualSC, the South Carolina Virtual School, or
Spartanburg County Public Virtual School. If a student and his/her parent(s) desire information regarding virtual
schooling, available online courses, and enrollment procedures, they should meet with a guidance counselor to discuss the
application process, course selection and availability, and fees for tuition and instructional materials. Virtual SC
information online can be accessed at: https://virtualsc.org/ and Spartanburg County Public Virtual School information
can be obtained from Nora Moore, Director, by calling (864) 576-4212.
7
College Admission Guidelines
Entrance Requirements for SC Public Colleges and Universities
All public 4-year colleges and universities in South Carolina require that applicants for freshman admission complete certain high school courses before
they will be admitted. If you plan to go to college, you should know that these requirements are similar to those in effect at other colleges and
universities in this state and elsewhere. Always check with your guidance counselor and with the admissions counselor at the college or university that
you plan to attend for additional details.
College Preparatory Course Prerequisite Requirements
Effective Date: Academic Year 2011-12 (Entering College Freshmen)
FOUR UNITS OF ENGLISH: At least two units must have strong grammar and composition components, at
least one must be in English literature, and at least one must be in American literature. Completion of
College Preparatory English I, II, III, and IV will meet this criterion.
FOUR UNITS OF MATHEMATICS: These include Algebra I (for which Applied Mathematics I and II may
count together as a substitute, if a student successfully completes Algebra II), Algebra II, and Geometry. A
fourth higher-level mathematics course should be selected from among Algebra III/trigonometry,
precalculus, calculus, statistics, discrete mathematics, or a capstone mathematics course and should
be taken during the senior year.
THREE UNITS OF LABORATORY SCIENCE: Two units must be taken in two different fields of the physical or
life sciences and selected from among biology, chemistry, or physics. The third unit may be from the same
field as one of the first two units (biology, chemistry, or physics) or from any laboratory science for which
biology and/or chemistry is a prerequisite. Courses in earth science, general physical science, or
introductory or general environmental science for which biology and/or chemistry is not a prerequisite will not
meet this requirement. It is strongly recommended that students take physical science (taught as a laboratory
science) as a prerequisite to the three required units of laboratory science outlined in this section. It is also
strongly recommended that students desiring to pursue careers in science, mathematics, engineering
or technology take one course in all three fields.
TWO UNITS OF THE SAME FOREIGN LANGUAGE
THREE UNITS OF SOCIAL SCIENCE: One unit of U.S. History is required; a half unit of Economics and a
half unit in Government are strongly recommended.
ONE UNIT OF FINE ARTS: One unit in Appreciation of, History of, or Performance in one of the fine arts.
ELECTIVE: One unit must be taken as an elective. A college preparatory course in Computer Science (i.e.,
one involving significant programming content, not simply keyboarding) is strongly recommended for
this elective. Other acceptable electives include college preparatory courses in English; fine arts; foreign
languages; social science; humanities; laboratory science (excluding earth science, general physical
science, general environmental science, or other introductory science courses for which biology and/or
chemistry is not a prerequisite); or mathematics above the level of Algebra II.
8
ONE UNIT OF PHYSICAL EDUCATION OR ROTC
NOTE:
1. Each institution may make exceptions in admitting (a) students who do not meet all of the prerequisites, limited to those individual cases in which the failure to meet one or more prerequisites is due to
circumstances beyond the reasonable control of the student; or, (b) students who have taken the Tech Prep (Applied Academics) courses rather than the required college preparatory curriculum described
above and who meet all other institutional admissions criteria.
2. The College Preparatory Course Prerequisite Requirements are minimal requirements for four-year public college admission. Therefore, students should check early with colleges of their choice to plan
to meet additional high school prerequisites that might be required for admission.
3. It is the responsibility of each school district to disseminate this set of requirements to entering freshmen students interested in pursuing a four-year college degree in South Carolina upon graduation
from high school and to provide the web address for their viewing: http://www.che.sc.gov/New_Web/GoingToCollege/CollPrepPrereq.htm.
4. This revision of the College Preparatory Course Prerequisite Requirements shall be fully implemented for students entering colleges and universities as freshmen beginning in Fall 2011.
NCAA: Information for Student-Athletes
Any student-athlete who wishes to play sports at the collegiate level must plan his/her coursework carefully to
ensure that he/she will meet the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) high school requirements for
eligibility. Remember, meeting NCAA academic qualifications does not guarantee admission to college.
Students taking a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum are more likely to be successful. Be sure to select
courses that:
 Meet high school graduation requirements;
 Adequately prepare for rigorous college-level work; and
 Meet NCAA initial-eligibility requirements.
NCAA Division I Initial Eligibility: College-bound student-athletes first entering an NCAA Division I college or
university on or after August 1, 2016 will need to meet new academic rules in order to receive athletics aid (scholarship),
practice or compete during their first year.

Division I Full Qualifier requirements include: complete 16 core courses (10 of the 16 must be complete before the 7 th semester/senior
year of high school and 7 of the 10 must be in English, math, or science), minimum core-course GPA of 2.300, meet the sliding scale
requirement of GPA and ACT/SAT score, graduate from high school. A Full Qualifier may receive athletics aid (scholarship), practice
and compete in the first year or enrollment at the Division I college or university.

Division I Academic Redshirt requirements include: complete 16 core courses, minimum core-course GPA 2.000, meet the sliding scale
requirement of GPA and ACT/SAT score, graduate from high school. An Academic Redshirt may receive athletics aid (scholarship) in the
first year of enrollment and may practice in the first regular academic term (semester or quarter) but may NOT compete in the first year of
enrollment. After the first term is complete, the college-bound student-athlete must be academically successful at his/her college or
university to practice for the rest of the year.

Division I Nonqualifiers do not meet the requirements for Full Qualifier or Academic Redshirt status. A Nonqualifier cannot receive
athletics aid (scholarship), cannot practice and cannot compete in the first year or enrollment.
NCAA Division II Initial Eligibility: College-bound student-athletes first entering an NCAA Division II college or
university on or after August 1, 2018 will need to meet new academic rules in order to receive athletics aid (scholarship),
practice or compete during their first year.
Test Scores: Division I uses a sliding scale to match test scores and core grade-point averages (GPA).
Division II requires a minimum SAT score of 820 or an ACT sum score of 68. The SAT score used for NCAA
purposes includes only the critical reading and math sections. The writing section of the SAT is not used. The
ACT score used for NCAA purposes is a sum of the following four sections: English, mathematics, reading and
science. When you register for the SAT or ACT, use the NCAA Eligibility Center code of 9999 to ensure all
SAT and ACT scores are reported directly to the NCAA Eligibility Center from the testing agency. Test scores
that appear on transcripts will not be used.
Grade-Point Average: Be sure to look at your high school’s List of NCAA Courses on the NCAA Eligibility
Center's website (www.eligibilitycenter.org). Only courses that appear on your school's List of NCAA Courses
will be used in the calculation of the core GPA. Division I students enrolling full time before August 1, 2016,
should use Sliding Scale A to determine eligibility to receive athletics aid, practice and competition during the
first year. Division I GPA required to receive athletics aid and practice on or after August 1, 2016, is 2.000.
Division I GPA required to be eligible for competition on or after August 1, 2016, is 2.300. The Division II core
9
GPA requirement is a minimum of 2.000. Remember, the NCAA GPA is calculated using NCAA core courses
only.
Not all courses that meet high school graduation requirements count as core courses for NCAA initial-eligibility.
Please see your guidance counselor or head coach if you have additional questions about NCAA eligibility or
visit www.eligibilitycenter.org
Career Clusters of Study
The Education and Economic Development Act (EEDA) is designed to give South Carolina students the
educational tools they need to build prosperous, successful futures. EEDA sets up a system to help South
Carolina students combine high academic standards with enhanced opportunities to explore career options
and build real-life working skills. By requiring all students to declare a career major in one of a number of
different clusters of study, essential academic learning with acquisition of job-related skills are connected to
form a powerful combination that improves students’ odds for career success.
Starting in the eighth grade, students and their parents or guardians sit down with counselors and create
individual graduation plans (IGPs) that lay out their personal education and career strategies. IGPs specify
students’ choices of cluster, major, postsecondary goals, high school course work, out-of-class learning
experiences, and more. Students and their parents revisit these choices at least once a year to make
adjustments in their plans.
The career cluster approach makes it easier for students to understand the relevance of their required courses
and helps them select their elective courses more wisely. Each cluster has its own coursework designed to
help students better understand their chosen field of interest. The clusters of study are:
1. Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources
2. Architecture and Construction
3. Arts, Audio-Video Technology, and Communications
4. Business, Management, and Administration
5. Education and Training
6. Finance
7. Health Science
8. Hospitality and Tourism
9. Human Services
10. Information Technology
11. Law, Public Safety, Corrections, and Security
12. Manufacturing
13. Government and Public Administration
14. Marketing, Sales, and Service
15. Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics
16. Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics
10
Spartanburg District Five
Academies/Clusters/Majors
Academy/School of Study
Academy of Arts and
Communication
Academy of Business and
Information Systems
Academy of Health and
Human Services
Academy of Science,
Environment, Engineering,
and Technology
Cluster
Major
Architecture and Mechanical Design
Audio and Video Technology and Film
Broadcasting
Arts, Audio-Video Technology, and
English
Communications
Journalism
Performing Arts
Visual Arts
Business Information Management
Business Management, and
Administration
General Management
Finance
Accounting
Restaurants and Food/Beverage
Hospitality and Tourism
Services
Information Technology
Web and Digital Communications
Modern Languages
Education and Training
Teaching and Training
National Security
Government and Public Administration
Social Science
Biotechnology Research and
Development
Health Science
Diagnostic and Therapeutic Services
Family and Community Services
Human Services
Personal Care Services
Emergency and Fire Management
Services
Law, Public Safety, Corrections, and
Security
Law Enforcement Services
Legal Studies
Horticulture
Agriculture, Food, and Natural
Natural Resources Systems
Resources
Plant and Animal Systems
Architecture and Construction
Carpentry
Machine Tool Technology
Manufacturing
Production Technician
Welding
Engineering and Technology
Science, Technology, Engineering, and
Mathematics
Science
Automotive Body Repair
Transportation, Distribution, and
Transportation Operations and Systems
Logistics
Vehicle Maintenance and Service
11
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
English
Title:
Prerequisite
English 1 (Mixed or Single Gender *)
None
This course offers an in-depth study of various literary genres including short stories, novels, poetry, drama,
and nonfiction. Grammar, usage, vocabulary and research skills are studied. Composition study includes
using the writing process, writing in a variety of genres including the essay, writing with a variety of audiences,
editing using Standard American English, using technology to process information, and making presentations.
* See page 2 for details.
Each student must take the SC End-of-Course exam for English 1 that counts 20% of the final grade.
Title:
Prerequisite
English 1 Honors
93+ in English 8 and 222+ on MAP Reading
This is an honors-level course for students who have the ability to pursue an accelerated English program.
Literary study includes reading and analyzing the selections from a variety of genres. Grammar, usage,
SAT/ACT vocabulary, research, and composition will be integrated with the literature study. Students in this
course will be required to work with more intensity, at a deeper level, and produce a greater range of more
complex and difficult material. Summer reading is required.
Each student must take the SC End-of-Course exam for English 1 that counts 20% of the final grade.
Title:
Prerequisite
English 2
English I
This course is an in-depth study of literature stressing techniques and literary modes and introducing universal
themes of world literature. Grammar and other language skills are studied intensely. Instruction in composition
includes the development of various writings with emphasis on exposition. Vocabulary and research skills are
also emphasized. Summer reading is optional.
Title:
Prerequisite
English 2 Honors
81+ in English 1 Honors
This is an honors-level course for students who have been successful in English I Honors. Literature study
emphasizes writers and themes, and instruction in composition and grammar is in depth. The course includes
the development of the multi-paragraph essay, literary analysis, vocabulary development, research skills, and
a research paper. Students in the course will be exposed to more complex and difficult material and
assignments. They will be expected to analyze and produce a greater range of more complex and difficult
material. Summer reading is required.
Title:
Prerequisite
Language Arts Strategies for Success
Performance on standardized tests
This course is designed to help improve reading, grammar, mechanics, and composition skills. Students will
take the course prior to English I in preparation for the English I End-of-Course Exam. Students are selected
based on performance on previous state and local tests. Various diagnostic tests and multi-level materials are
used to individualize instruction. This course is an elective credit, and it does not take the place of any
required English course.
12
Mathematics
Title
Unit Credit
Prerequisite
Foundations in Algebra (TBD) new course for 2015-2016
1
Completion of Pre-Algebra 2
Foundations in Algebra is the first in a two-course sequence designed to prepare students for
success in advanced mathematics courses. This course will provide a foundation in algebra and
probability, building on the conceptual knowledge and skills mastered in the middle grades. The
content of this course will concentrate on the areas of algebraic thinking, measurement, probability,
data analysis, and proportional reasoning.
Title:
Prerequisite
Algebra 1 (Mixed or Single Gender *)
81+ in Pre-Algebra 2 or Advanced Pre-Algebra 2 and 233+ on MAP Math
The content of Algebra 1 encompasses the real number system; operations involving exponents, matrices, and
algebraic expressions; relations and functions; writing and solving linear equations; graphs and characteristics
of linear equations; and quadratic relationships and functions. It meets the state Algebra 1 standards and is
intended for motivated students of average or above average skills in mathematics.
Each student must take the SC End-of-Course exam for Algebra 1 that counts 20% of the final grade.
Title:
Prerequisite
Geometry
Completion of Algebra 1 Honors
The content of Geometry encompasses properties of basic geometric figures; properties of triangles; properties
of quadrilaterals and other polygons; properties of circles, lines, and special segments intersecting circles;
transformations; coordinate geometry; surface area and volume of three-dimensional objects; and proofs.
Title:
Prerequisite
Geometry Honors
81+ in Algebra 1 Honors
This honors-level course utilizes the mathematical proof in the development of two and three-dimensional
geometric concepts and properties. Other topics include angle measurements and relationships, line
relationships, properties of polygons and solids, similarity and congruence, the Pythagorean relationship,
circles, area, volume, and transformations. In addition, it includes a unit in formal logic/proofs and other
enrichment topics.
Title:
Prerequisite
Mathematics Strategies for Success 1
Performance on standardized tests
This course is designed to reinforce and improve basic math skills in addition to improving skills in variable
expressions, properties of numbers, solving one variable equations, and graphing linear equations. It should be
taken in conjunction with Foundations in Algebra (new course) in preparation for the Algebra 1 End-of-Course
Exam. This course does not take the place of any required mathematics course.
13
Science
Title:
Co-Requisite
Integrated Science (TBD) new course for 2015-2016
Foundations in Algebra (TBD) new course for 2015-2016
Integrated Science is the introductory science course at Byrnes Freshman Academy designed for
freshman students. Integrated Science teaches skills necessary for the successful completion of
Physical Science, Biology and/or Chemistry. This course will introduce students to concepts such as
the Nature of Science, Technology, Organization of Life, Cells, Metabolism, Genetics, Ecology,
Forces and Energy, Matter, and the Periodic Table. This course will emphasize problem solving,
critical thinking, and scientific inquiry skills. The course is not accepted as a laboratory science by
South Carolina public colleges and universities.
Title:
Co-Requisite
Physical Science (Mixed or Single Gender *)
Algebra 1, Geometry, Geometry Honors
Physical Science is designed to serve as a foundation for other high school science courses. It incorporates
principles of chemistry and physics by emphasizing inquiry-based learning, process skills, and higher-order
thinking skills. Chemistry units include composition and classification of matter, atomic structure and the
periodic table, chemical bonds and reactions, and basic nuclear chemistry. Physics units include forces and
motion, conservation of energy, electricity, magnetism, wave phenomena characteristics and behavior, and
sound waves. Investigative, hands-on lab activities that address the high school inquiry standards are an
integral part of this course. The course is not accepted as a laboratory science by South Carolina public
colleges and universities.
* See page 2 for details.
Title:
Prerequisite
Co-Requisite
Physical Science Honors
81+ in Algebra 2 Honors or 91+ in Algebra 1 Honors
Geometry, Geometry Honors
Physical Science Honors covers the same chemistry and physics units as Physical Science. However, this
honors-level course is for students who demonstrate high interest and ability in science. Laboratory work,
mathematical computations, and problem solving are essential parts of this course. Students in this course will
be required to work with more intensity, at a deeper level, and produce a wider range of complex material. The
course is not accepted as a laboratory science by South Carolina public colleges and universities.
14
Social Studies
Title:
Prerequisite
World Geography (Mixed or Single-Gender*)
None
The focus of World Geography is the physical and cultural characteristics of Earth. The course is
organized around the topics of region, physical earth dynamics, population, culture, economic systems, urban
systems, political systems, and the environment. Critical thinking is emphasized in this course, with stress
placed on the development of spatial thinking skills and competency related to the five themes of geography:
location, place, regions, movement, and human-environment interaction. Map-reading skills and the use of
geographic models and geographic information systems are an integral part of this course, as well.
Title:
Prerequisite
World Geography Honors
93+ in 8th grade English or 81+ in English I Honors and 222+ on MAP Reading
The focus of Honors World Geography is the physical and cultural characteristics of Earth. The course is
organized systematically around the topics of region, physical earth dynamics, population,
culture, economic systems, urban systems, political systems, and the environment. Critical thinking is
emphasized in this course, with stress placed on the development of spatial thinking skills and competency
related to the five themes of geography: location, place, regions, movement, and
human-environment interaction. Map-reading skills and the use of geographic models and geographic
information systems are an integral part of this course, as well. Course requirements include parallel readings,
critical research, and authentic products and performances.
Title:
Prerequisite
Introduction to Advanced Placement Human Geography (1st Semester)
93+ in 8th grade English or 81+ in English I Honors, 222+ on MAP Reading, and
Social Studies teacher recommendation
Title:
Prerequisite
Advanced Placement Human Geography (2nd Semester)
77+ in Introduction to Advanced Placement Human Geography
This college-level course is designed to allow students to study in depth the nature and perspectives of
geography, population, cultural patterns and processes, political spatial organization, agricultural and rural land
use, industrialization and economic development, and cities/urban land use. Students will earn one unit of
honors weighted elective credit for Introduction to Advanced Placement Human Geography (1 st semester) and
one unit of AP weighted social studies for Advanced Placement Human Geography (2nd semester). All students
enrolled in Advanced Placement Human Geography (2nd semester) must take the Advanced Placement
Human Geography Exam in May.
Students who do not earn at least a 77 average in Introduction to Advanced Placement Human Geography (1st
semester) will be placed in another academic class for the second semester.
15
Modern Languages
Title:
Prerequisite
Chinese 1
Grade of 81 or higher in 8th grade English
This course will help students develop the skills of understanding, speaking, reading and writing basic Chinese.
Students will learn to pronounce and use the basic sound system (pinyin) and learn to recognize basic Chinese
characters. Students will master a limited set of structural and lexical objectives to be used in common, daily
conversational situations. They will gain a basic knowledge of contemporary Chinese culture as they
participate in language activities to develop competence. Level 1 will focus more on speaking and listening to
develop basic understanding of the Chinese language and culture. Reading and writing characters will focus
on single words, short sentences and brief paragraphs directly related to daily life and the Chinese culture.
Title:
Prerequisite
French 1
Grade of 81 or higher in 8th Grade English
This course begins to develop the skills of understanding, speaking, reading, and writing French. Students will
learn to pronounce and use the basic sounds and intonation patterns of the language. They will master a
limited set of structural and lexical objectives to be used in common daily conversational situations. They will
also gain a basic knowledge of contemporary French culture as they participate in language activities to
develop competence. Reading will be limited primarily to short passages of materials covered orally and texts
on culture or direct reading in French.
Title:
Prerequisite
German 1
Grade of 81 or higher in 8th Grade English
This course begins to develop the skills of understanding, speaking, reading, and writing German. Students
will learn to pronounce and use the basic sounds and intonation patterns of the language. They will master a
limited set of structural and lexical objectives to be used in common daily conversational situations. They will
also gain a basic knowledge of contemporary German culture as they participate in language activities to
develop competence. Reading will be limited primarily to short passages of materials covered orally and texts
on culture or direct reading in German.
Title:
Prerequisite
Spanish 1
Grade of 81 or higher in 8th Grade English
This course begins to develop the skills of understanding, speaking, reading, and writing Spanish. Students
will learn to pronounce and use the basic sounds and intonation patterns of the language. They will master a
limited set of structural and lexical objectives to be used in common daily conversational situations. They will
also gain a basic knowledge of contemporary Spanish culture as they participate in language activities to
develop competence. Reading will be limited primarily to short passages of materials covered orally and texts
on culture or direct reading in Spanish.
16
Physical Education

Title:
Prerequisite
Fee
PE 1 is required for graduation if JROTC 1 is not taken.
Physical Education 1/Personal Fitness (Mixed or Single Gender *)
None
$5 for Locker
Physical Education 1 provides opportunities for students to become competent and proficient in two movement
forms selected from a variety of choices. Students will also participate in a personalized physical fitness
program, participate regularly in health-enhancing physical activity beyond the physical education class, and
meet the gender and age group health-related physical fitness standards. Students enrolled in PE 1 will
participate in the SC PE Assessment Program.
* See page 2 for details
JROTC – Aerospace Science
(Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps)
Students enrolled in Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFJROTC) receive physical education
(PE) credit for their first year and elective credit for remaining years. AFJROTC is sponsored by the United
States Air Force to foster leadership and citizenship. The wear of the Air Force uniform, the practice of drill
and ceremonies, and the study of military customs are intended to promote patriotism, self-discipline, and
teamwork. Students desiring entry into the AFJROTC program must be a United States citizen (or seeking US
citizenship). They must meet acceptable physical standards (i.e., must actively participate in physical fitness
activities), standards of achievement, and standards of personal conduct and appearance as prescribed by the
Air Force. The AFJROTC program is designed to familiarize the student with aerospace subjects such as the
fundamentals of flight, survival, space exploration, career development, and cultural awareness. Each course
also includes lessons on leadership principals, management techniques, communication skills, teamwork, and
military customs and courtesies. In addition, the USAF mandates that twenty percent of each course is
comprised of a Health and Wellness curriculum which includes exercises such as push-ups, sit-ups, and a
one-mile run. Extracurricular activities include field trips, color guard, competition drill team, saber team,
aircraft model club, rocketry club, presentation team, orienteering and a Kitty Hawk national honor society.
Fees: There is a $50 activity fee for each academic year whether the student takes one or two courses. This
activity fee covers miscellaneous program costs such as equipment, field trip expenses, community service
activities; and special activities such as a hot air balloon projects, annual awards banquet, 9/11 and Veterans’
Day ceremonies.
Appearance Standards: Cadets must meet the personal appearance standards of the US Air Force when
wearing the uniform. The United States Air Force sponsors this program to promote citizenship and leadership
in our communities. We visit military installations during the year, and the US Congress mandates that cadets
wear the uniform one day per week to get credit for the program. Not wearing the uniform as prescribed will
result in a failing grade for the course. At all other times, Byrnes High School dress and appearance standards
apply.
Male Standards: When in uniform, the cadet’s hair must be neat in appearance and conform to the shape of
the head, must be tapered in appearance, and must not interfere with the proper wear of the JROTC headgear.
The male hair cannot exceed 1 ½ inches in bulk. The hair cannot touch the ears and sideburns cannot extend
below the bottom opening of the ear. This does not mean that males have to have “high and tight” haircuts.
Faddish hairstyles such as corn rows, smoke stacks and bowl cuts are not permitted while in uniform. Hair
color must be natural for the ethnicity of the cadet involved. Males may have moustaches, but they must be
neatly trimmed. Male earrings must be removed when wearing the JROTC uniform. Cadets should not have
additional piercing in their ears while in JROTC because spacers and additional earrings are not authorized for
wear with the uniform.
17
Female Standards: When in uniform, the female hair cannot exceed three inches in bulk and it cannot extend
below the back of the collar of the uniform. The hairstyle must permit proper wear of the JROTC headgear.
Even females with waist-length hair find very attractive ways to style and wear their hair on uniform day. Only
one pair of earrings may be worn with the uniform. The earrings must be small and spherical stud-type
earrings. Cadets should not have additional piercing in their ears while in JROTC because spacers and
additional earrings are not authorized for wear with the uniform. Hair color must be natural for the ethnicity of
the cadet involved. Nail polish must be either clear or neutral in color, or may be finished in a French manicure
style. When in uniform, female cadets must wear hair accessories that match the color of the hair.
Note: Cadets may not have visibly pierced body parts (nose, tongue, eyelid, lip, etc.) while in uniform. Tattoos
must not cover more than 25% of the exposed body, and they must be in good taste, not contain profanity or
sexual references, and must meet the standards of the Byrnes High School dress code and appearance
guidelines.
Curriculum: The Air Force permits each AFJROTC department to tailor its curriculum using the various
academic courses provided. The selection of academic material may vary from year-to-year, but it will all have
the same academic rigor prescribed by the US Air Force.
Title:
Prerequisite
Fee
JROTC Aerospace Science 1
None
$50
The first level of the AFJROTC instructional program is an introductory course for the entering AFJROTC
student. Academic material introduces cadets to the AFJROTC program and focuses on military traditions,
citizenship, the U.S. government, wellness, health, fitness, personal accountability, and Phase I Introduction to
College and Career Path Development. Citizenship principles are reinforced through community service
projects. The concepts of good “followership” are fostered as a foundation for leadership. A highlight of this
curriculum is a hot air balloon project, where cadets design, construct, and launch their own hot air balloons.
Students receive a physical education unit upon completion of this course.
18
Career and Technology Education
Business Education
Title:
Prerequisite
Integrated Business Applications 1 (IBA)
Keyboarding
Career Cluster
Business, Management, and Administration; Finance; and Information Technology
This course is designed to teach students software applications that are necessary to live and work in a
technological society. The applications covered include word processing, database, spreadsheet, and
presentation. Other content areas may include computer hardware, terminology, and concepts. This course
fulfills the computer science requirement for graduation.
Title:
Prerequisite
Exploring Computer Science
Algebra 1 and/or teacher recommendation
Career Cluster
Arts, A/V Technology, and Communication, Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
This course of study is designed to allow students to explore a variety of computer science topics, such as
Web design, human computer interactions, programming, and problem solving. Optional topics include mobile
applications, robotics, and digital animation. Students will develop critical thinking, logic, and problem solving
skills relevant to today’s technology. This course fulfills the computer science requirement for graduation.
Title:
Prerequisite
Digital Input Technologies
None
Career Cluster
Business, Management, and Administration; Finance; and Information Technology
This course is designed to introduce the students to new and emerging technologies that are impacting the
way we input information into computers and other devices. Students will be introduced to handwriting and
speech recognition software. Mobile devices (such as iPhones, iTouches, MyTouches, and Blackberrys) will be
introduced as a tool for personal and business applications. Students will also have an opportunity to explore
digital imaging and the various methods of input available for inclusion in documents. This course fulfills the
computer science requirement for graduation.
Title:
Prerequisite
Keyboarding/Computer Applications
None
This course is designed to provide an opportunity for students to master the skills on a keyboard and a ten-key
pad using the touch method of key stroking. Emphasis is placed on accuracy, speed, proper techniques, and
correct fingering. Students learn to create letters, memoranda, reports, tables, and other business documents.
Students are taught the introductory use of database, spreadsheet, word processing, and graphics applications
software. Successful completion of both parts fulfills the computer science requirement for graduation.
Technology Education
Title:
Prerequisite
Technology Systems
None
Career Cluster
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics
This STEM course is intended to teach you how technological systems work together to solve problems and
capture opportunities. This course gives students a general background on the different types of systems but
concentrates more on the connections between these systems. The course covers safety orthographic
drawing. How Systems Work, Impacts of Technology, Interaction between Systems, Maintenance, Designing
Technology, and Space Technologies. Students have an opportunity to join the Technology Student
Association and compete at state and national level.
19
Title:
Prerequisite
Career Cluster
Pre-Engineering I
Grade of 76 or higher in Algebra I Honors or enrolled in Algebra 1 at BFA
Architecture and Construction Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
In this hands-on course, students work in teams and individually to use technological systems to analyze
problems, make presentations concerning possible solutions, create solutions, and evaluate results. Students
will incorporate the use of multimedia presentations to express ideas to others and generate discussion
concerning possible outcomes. Problems will be drawn from many different areas requiring the use of math,
science, and other skills. A primary focus will be on learning to use 3-D CAD Software. Students may expand
and use their knowledge of technology and develop leadership skills through participation in the Technology
Student Association and the VEX Robotics Team.
PROJECT LEAD THE WAY:
ENGINEERING PROGRAM
The PLTW Engineering Program is a sequence of courses, all aligned with appropriate national learning standards, which
follows a proven hands-on, real-world problem-solving approach to learning. Students engage in open-ended problem
solving, learn and apply the engineering design process, and use the same industry-leading technology and software as are
used the world’s top companies. Students will investigate topics such as aerodynamics and astronautics, biological
engineering and sustainability, and digital electronics and circuit design, which gives them an opportunity to learn about
different engineering disciplines before beginning post-secondary education or careers.
At the conclusion of each course, students will take an end-of-class assessment through PLTW.
Title
Prerequisite
Career Cluster
Principles of Engineering (6050) new for 2015-2016
Grade of 86 or higher in Algebra I Honors
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM)
Through problems that engage and challenge students, they explore a broad range of engineering topics, including
mechanisms, the strength of structures and materials, and automation. Students develop skills in problem solving,
research, and design while learning strategies for design process documentation, collaboration, and presentation.
20
Fine Arts
Title:
Grade Levels
Prerequisite
Fee
Marching Band 1 (First Semester)
9
High School Band Director recommendation
$100 to be paid at registration
Career Cluster
All
This course is designed for brass and woodwind students who are interested in being a member of the Rebel
Regiment Marching Band. Participation in this course will require some after school practices and
performances. The Rebel Regiment has won 10 state championships, 17 Upper State Championships and is
the back-to-back 2013 and 2014 5A Upper State Champions. Marching band members should sign up for
symphonic band second semester to continue their music education all year.
Title:
Grade Levels
Prerequisite
Fee
Marching Band Percussion 1 (First Semester)
9
High School Band Director recommendation/Audition
$100 to be paid at registration
Career Cluster
All
This course is designed for percussion students who are interested in being a member of the Rebel Regiment
marching band. Participation in this course will require some after school practices and performances. The
Rebel Regiment has won 10 state championships, 17 Upper State Championships and is the back-to-back
2013 and 2014 5A Upper State Champions. Percussion students must complete an audition in order to
participate in this course.
Title:
Grade Levels
Prerequisite
Fall Concert Band 1 (First Semester)
9-12
High School Band Director recommendation
Career Cluster
All
This course is designed for those students who are not in marching band to keep their skills up during first
semester. This group will not have any required after school practices and, at most, one required performance
second nine weeks. Students will develop their performance abilities and practice all types of concert music. It
is highly recommended that Fall Concert Band members should sign up for symphonic band second semester
to continue their music education all year.
Title:
Grade Levels
Prerequisite
Symphonic Band 1 (Second Semester)
9-12
High School Band Director recommendation
Career Cluster
All
This course is designed for students on an advanced level who are interested in improving their skills on a
musical instrument. The students will be performing some of the modern and standard literature for concert
band. There will be one or two required after school performances per nine weeks, as well as, required after
school rehearsals.
Title:
Grade Levels
Prerequisite
Fee
Color Guard 1 (A & B)
9
Audition
$100 to be paid at registration (This course may require optional funds depending on
the performance and travel schedule.)
Career Cluster
All
21
This course is designed for those students who are interested in being a member of the Rebel Regiment Color
Guard and Winter Guard. It is open to all Byrnes students by audition only. Students in the color guard class
are required to participate with the Rebel Regiment and with one of those Byrnes Winter Guards, both of which
rehearse and perform after school: marching band in the fall, winter guard in the spring. Any student may sign
up if they are planning to audition. Students will be placed in the appropriate level section upon completion of a
successful audition.
Title:
Prerequisite
Fee
Freshman Academy Orchestra (A & B)
8th Grade Orchestra or an Audition with the Orchestra Teacher
$35 to be paid at registration
Career Cluster
Performing Arts
This course is for students who are interested in improving their skills on their string instrument. Students will
study musical scales, shifting, rhythms, and different bow styles in order to play orchestral pieces. Further
information, such as music theory and music history, will be taught so that students have a complete
understanding of the arrangements being played. Students are required to attend after school rehearsals and
concerts as part of their overall course grade.
Title:
Prerequisite
Theatre
None
Career Cluster
Performing Arts
Individual and group performance and participation are mandatory. This course will focus on the fundamentals
of acting, improvisation, design, and theatre history. Lessons will include creative dramatic exercises to
explore acting and performance techniques on a daily basis. Participation in an after-school play is
encouraged, but is not a requirement of this course.
Title:
Prerequisite
Art 1
None
Career Cluster
Arts, A/V Technology, and Communication
This introductory course provides students with problem-solving experiences in two and three-dimensional
media, stressing design elements (line, shape, form, value, color, space, and texture) and design principles
(proportion, emphasis, harmony/unity, balance, rhythm/movement, contrast, repetition/ pattern, and variety).
Emphasis is on the development of basic skills. Students will be required to produce a weekly
sketchbook/writing assignment, as well as maintain a portfolio. Students will also be required to purchase
basic supplies.
Title:
Prerequisite
Art 2
8th grade Advanced Art, teacher recommendation and a portfolio review
Career Cluster
Arts, A/V Technology, and Communication
This course is intended to enhance previous visual artistic skills and knowledge. The course will delve into
more advanced techniques of art making. More sophisticated media and techniques will be explored in
different lessons and exercises. Students will be taught and encouraged to explore creative solutions to more
complex problems. Students will be motivated in every exercise through historical and student visual
examples. Students will utilize art criticism and will be expected to participate in class critiques. Aesthetic
questions and lateral thinking exercises will be incorporated to enhance critical thinking skills. The
maintenance of a sketchbook and portfolio are required. Students must have art teacher recommendation to
take this course. Students will also be required to purchase basic supplies.
22
Title:
Academy Chorale
Prerequisite
Fee
Recommendation of Middle School Choral Director or simple audition with the
BFA Choral Director
$25.00
Career Cluster
Performing Arts, Communications
The Byrnes Freshman Academy Chorale is for young men and women who want to participate in a choral
ensemble (group singing) experience. Students will have the opportunity to develop music reading skills
(music literacy) and personal vocal skills. Students will perform music in a variety of styles, cultures, and
languages. The Academy Chorale has opportunities to perform for school and seasonal concerts. Students
may audition for the SC Honors Choirs sponsored by the American Choral Directors Association.
The audition process is very simple. Sing My Country, ‘Tis Of Thee, Happy Birthday, or Jingle Bells.
The choral director will visit middle schools prior to registration to meet students and do simple auditions.
Additional audition times may be scheduled by contacting Mr. Keesler at Rusty.Keesler@Spart5.net.
Students are encouraged to continue their participation in the Byrnes High School Choral program that
includes the Rebel Singers and Byrnes Singers. Students who have earned at least three (3) units in chorus
may earn honors credit by completing additional assignments each 9 weeks. Students in Byrnes Singers have
opportunities to participate in the SC Honor Choirs, SC All-State Choirs, and other activities at the state and
regional level. Performances in recent years have included the Bill Drake Christmas Festival, Greenville Drive
baseball games, annual Broadway Dinner Theatre, Carowinds Choral Festival, and a performance at Carnegie
Hall in New York City.
The activity fee covers the student’s concert attire.
23
Additional Electives
Title:
Prerequisite
Creative Writing
None
In this course, students will develop their creative writing skills through exercises, discussions, and class
presentations. Possible writing assignments include poetry, short stories, fables, fairy tales, journal entries,
children’s books, etc. Students are exposed to a variety of print and non-print resources to encourage
creativity and critical thinking.
Title:
Prerequisite
Leadership BFA
Qualification based on Leadership BFA application, 3 teacher recommendations,
exemplary behavior, and overall B average
Career Cluster
Education and Training
This course is designed for students interested in developing leadership skills. The purpose of this course is to
teach students skills for effective leadership at BFA and in their community. Improving Leadership qualities,
community service and school spirit will be the primary goals of the course. Students will work on various
school-based service projects organized around improving the school climate for students. Interested students
must pick-up an application from the guidance department at your school.
Title:
Prerequisite
Freshman Focus
None
This course emphasizes preparing students for a successful career in high school. Topics include study and
test-taking skills, academic and career planning, social skills, interviewing skills, business skills, and
presentation skills.
Title:
Prerequisite
Journalism 1
None
Career Cluster
Arts, A/V Technology, and Communication
This course is designed to give students a good foundation of journalism skills that will enable them to go into
the print journalism (yearbook or newspaper) and/or broadcast journalism programs. This course covers ethics,
determining news, searching for sources, interviewing skills, writing news, feature and sport stories, and photo
journalism. Students will learn the basics of design for both newspaper and yearbook. Students will practice
skills necessary to be a good reporter and/or broadcast journalist. This course is a prerequisite for any print or
broadcast journalism class at the high school.
Title:
Prerequisite
Personal Health and Wellness
None
This elective course focuses on teaching students the information and the skills needed to become health
literate, maintain and improve personal health, prevent disease, and reduce health-related risk behaviors as
outlined in the SC Health and Safety Curriculum Standards. The course content areas include Personal Health
and Wellness, Nutritional Choices, Mental Health, Preventing Injuries, and Family Living.
Title:
Prerequisite
Rebel Book Club
None
Students in this course are encouraged to participate as a community of readers, each sharing his/her interest
in chosen works with others. Students are encouraged to read a variety of works from science fiction, historical
fiction, tales of terror, and young adult fiction to non-fiction and poetry. Projects and writing assignments
related to the reading are required.
24
Title:
Prerequisite
Broadcast Journalism
None
Career Cluster
Arts, A/V Technology, and Communication; Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
In this course students will develop speaking and writing skills through the media of video news and online
publishing. Participants should be prepared to handle the fast pace of news gathering, reporting, editing, and
producing as a member of the BFA News Staff. This class produces a daily news program for the Freshman
Academy with announcements, public service commercials, character building lessons, and sports highlights.
Students are expected to perform both on and off camera roles. Progress will be measured by participation
and projects including video and audio taped evaluations.
Title:
Prerequisite
English Speakers of Other Languages 1 (ESOL 1 A & B)
District, State, and Federal ESOL Guidelines
ESOL is a federally mandated program provided for students whose first language was one other
than English. It is designed to help non-native English speakers move toward proficiency in the areas
of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students showing a deficit in one or more of these areas
qualify for the ESOL program. Coursework is geared toward individual needs according to
standardized ESOL test results. Skills addressed are vocabulary development, grammar mastery,
reading comprehension, and developmental writing. Students are served by an ESOL certified
teacher through inclusion in English 1 and another academic content area.
25
Study Skills
Title:
Prerequisite
Study Skills 1 (A & B)
District and State Qualifications
This class is designed to give students basic skills enhancement, tutorial assistance in content area classes,
preparation for the SC High School Assessment Program, and transitional preparation for a career or postsecondary education. Students enrolled must have met certain district and state qualifications.
RATE (Rebels Achieving Through Effort)
The following courses are designed for students pursuing a local alternative credential.
Title:
Prerequisite
OC English 1
District and State Qualifications
This course is designed for students whose post-graduate goal is employment. Course work will include basic
grammar skills, functional reading and writing, public speaking, and employability training in the areas of
locating, obtaining, and maintaining competitive employment. Students will complete a job employment
portfolio that showcases their best work which may be used in job interviews after graduation.
Title:
Prerequisite
OC Math 1
District and State Qualifications
This course is designed for students whose post-graduate goal is employment. The course work emphasizes
practical application of math skills to everyday life, finances, and the use of math on the job. Instruction will
include basic math skills, use of charts, and other visual aids.
Title:
Prerequisite
OC Career Preparation 1
District and State Qualifications
Students will gain work experience through school based industry and service learning. The emphasis is on
teaching positive work habits, behaviors, and skills that are transferable to competitive employment situations.
Students have the opportunity to solve work-related problems, obtain advocacy training, and learn about
employment.
Title:
Prerequisite
OC Science 1
District and State Qualifications
Covered within this course will be topics related to personal health and well-being, first aid, use of healthrelated community resources, family life education, personal hygiene, personal social skills, and consumer and
environmental science. Problem solving strategies and conflict resolution skills will be explored and applied to
simulated situations.
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Spartanburg Community College can be found online at http://www.sccsc.edu/
Schedule of courses offered in FALL 2015 at SCC TRC:
Schedule of courses offered in SPRING 2016 at SCC TRC:
Estimated Tuition Costs* for Spartanburg Community College:
Admission Requirements for Spartanburg Community College:
SAT: Critical Reading 480 and Math 480 OR
ACT: English 19 and Math 19
along with successful completion of application for admission and required paperwork
Course
Prerequisites
COMPASS Score
AHS 102
ENG 032
Writing 42
RDG 032
Reading 69
AHS 104
ENG 032
Writing 42
RDG 032
Reading 69
BIO 101
Reading 81
Writing 78
Algebra 47
CPT 101
ENG 032
Writing 42
RDG 032
Reading 69
MAT 032
Pre-algebra 44
ECO 210
ENG 101
ENG 102
HIS 102
MAT 110/120
PSC 201
PSY 201
SOC 101
SPC 205
ENG 032
RDG 032
MAT 032
ENG 100
RDG 100
ENG 101 or
AP Score
ENG 100
RDG 100
ENG 032
RDG 100
MAT 102
ENG 032
RDG 032
ENG 100
RDG 032
MAT 032
ENG 100
RDG 100
ENG 100
RDG 100
Writing 42
Reading 69
Pre-algebra 44
Writing 78
Reading 81
N/A
AP Score Accepted
3 or higher on English Lang. & Comp. or English Lit. & Comp.
3 or higher on English Lang. & Comp. or English Lit. & Comp.
Writing 78
Reading 81
Writing 42
Reading 81
Algebra 66
Writing 42
Reading 69
Writing 78
Reading 69
Pre-algebra 44
Writing 78
Reading 81
Writing 78
Reading 81
The University of South Carolina Upstate can be found online at http://www.uscupstate.edu/
Schedule of courses offered in FALL 2015 at USC Upstate:
Schedule of courses offered in SPRING 2016 at USC Upstate:
Estimated Tuition Costs for USC Upstate:
Admission Requirements for USC Upstate:
GPA: 3.000 (“B” average)
along with successful completion of application for admission to USC Upstate and other required
paperwork including counselor recommendation forms
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R.D. ANDERSON APPLIED TECHNOLOGY CENTER
P. O. Box 248/1151 Center Pointe Drive • Moore, South Carolina 29369
864-576-5020 or visit our website at www.rdanderson.org
Career and technology programs at R.D. Anderson Applied Technology Center are aligned with South Carolina’s Career Clusters as
defined by the State Department of Education. The career clusters in which R.D. Anderson offers courses are listed below along with
the courses taught within each cluster.
MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of R. D. Anderson Applied Technology Center is to provide a positive,
innovative, and challenging applied learning environment in which staff, families, and the
community work together so that all students have an opportunity to develop marketable
job skills and work ethics necessary to be successful in the ever-changing workplace
and/or post-secondary education.
Courses at RDA are open to all students enrolled at Byrnes, Dorman and Woodruff High Schools. Enrollment for each program is
limited. Admission priorities will be determined by grade level and prerequisite requirements for each course.
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RD Anderson Applied Technology Center
Courses for 9th Graders
Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources
Intro to Agriculture Science and Technology
1 Unit • Grades 9, 10 only
This course is designed to teach essential concepts and understanding related to plant and animal
life including biotechnology, the conservation of natural resources, and the impact of agriculture and
natural resource utilization on the environment. Emphasis is placed on the role of agriculture in our
society and the importance of agriculture to the welfare of the world. Basic personal and community
leadership as well as safety and agricultural mechanical technology are included as a part of the
instructional program. Each student is expected to design and participate in a supervised agricultural
experience.
Typical learning activities are hands-on learning experiences including: performing basic principles of
plant, soil, and animal science; studying and modeling the significance of humankind’s
interrelationship with soil, water, and air; participating in FFA activities.
Arts, A/V Technology & Communication
Introduction to Graphic Communications and Printing Procedures
1 Unit • Grades 9, 10, 11
This semester course is designed to provide a general overview of graphic arts and design. Students
use digital cameras, screen printing, and offset printing equipment. Students will use Macintosh
computers to design projects for vinyl decals, one-color offset printing projects, and one-color Tshirts. The Adobe Creative Suite software, including Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign will
be used to design projects.
Health Science
Introduction to Emergency Medical Services
1 Unit • Grade 9, 10, 11
Fee: $10.00 for CPR Barrier / Card
Introduction to EMS is designed to introduce students to the emergency medical field. Through
classroom and laboratory instruction, students will gain knowledge in medical, legal and ethical
issues; safety and infection control; personal wellness; disaster preparedness; and hazardous
materials recognition and response.
Architecture & Construction
Carpentry I
1 Unit • Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
This is a one-semester course that prepares the student for an entry-level position in the construction
field. This course is centered around safety on the jobsite, basic skills needed in the construction
field, and the use of hand and power tools. Students will be introduced to basic frame carpentry and
roofing techniques.
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Law, Public Safety, Corrections & Security
Fire/Emergency Medical Services I
2 Units/1 Semester • Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
This course is designed to teach entry level requirements of firefighting and EMS. This course will
cover NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) standards 1152 and 1153, which are requirements
to be a firefighter in South Carolina. Students will participate in many hands-on drills using actual
firefighting/EMS equipment in addition to classroom instruction. Students will be required to wear
personal protective equipment and participate in physically demanding exercises.
Law Enforcement Services I
1 Unit • Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Law Enforcement I is an introductory level course designed to teach entry level requirements of a
police officer. Instruction will include classroom lecture/demonstration and hands-on drills. Students
will learn the duties and responsibilities of the police, courts and corrections. Included in this course
are the historical development of the system and the study of landmark Supreme Court decisions that
impact criminal justice. Students will participate in demonstrations of search and arrest techniques
and fingerprinting and gain an understanding of forensic science and how it is used in the field, along
with investigative procedures used to solve crimes. Students will be required to wear a uniform and
participate in physical exercises.
Manufacturing
Machine Tool Technology I
1 Unit • Grades 9, 10, 11
*Strongly suggest successful completion of Algebra I or Math Tech 1 & 2
This semester class is designed to introduce students to the high-wage, high-skill field of
manufacturing and repairing metal parts. This class lets students investigate and experiment with the
fields of metal manufacturing such as racecar fabricating, engine building, and mold and die
manufacturing. The students will learn safety skills, measurement units, and math skills used by the
machinist. They will also learn layout procedures, blueprint reading, hand-tool skills, and basic
operations on drill presses, engine lathes and milling machines. The successful student will be
prepared to continue more advanced technical studies in Machine Tool Technology II.
Transportation, Distribution, & Logistics
Automotive Collision Repair I
2 Units • Grade 9, 10, 11, 12; Dual Credit with GTC
Fee : $20 for respirator
Automotive Collision I is a two-period, one semester course which introduces students to the highskill world of auto collision repair. Students are taught beginning-level refinishing preparation and
application which includes shop safety, environmental concerns, spray gun set-up, adjustment and
testing. Application of single-stage, basecoat, and tri-stage paint systems are included. Students will
also learn how to repair flexible and rigid plastics. Detailing interiors and exteriors (color sanding and
buffing) and introduction to structural repair are taught in this course.
ACR I students are also eligible for college credit (must be 16 years old) through Greenville Technical
College. Eighty-five percent of instructional time will be spent in the shop performing hands-on
repairs. Successful students will be eligible to continue their study in ACR II.
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*New Offering - General Elective*
Skills to Pay the Bills: Teaching Students to Walk the Walk for Workplace Success
1 Unit • Grade 9, 10, 11, 12
This is a course developed to teach “soft” or workforce readiness skills to students in grades 9 – 12
enrolled in a Career and Technology center course. This course is created for Career and
Technology education students as an introduction to workplace interpersonal and professional skills.
The basic structure of the program is comprised of modular, hands-on, engaging activities that focus
on the following key skill areas: Time management, Professionalism, Communication, Quality of
Work, Participation/Teamwork, Attitude/Enthusiasm, Critical Thinking, Healthy Lifestyles, Community
Service, and Career Readiness 101.
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Course Directory Worksheet
Freshman Year Planning Guide
Subject
Course Selection
English
Math
Science
Social Studies
PE or ROTC
Computer Science or Elective
Elective
Elective
BFA
1st Alternate Elective Choice
BFA
2nd Alternate Elective Choice
RDA
1st Alternate Elective Choice
2nd
RDA
Alternate Elective Choice
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Questions for my Counselor
&
Notes
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